I Was Called Barabbas

Barabbas #1

by M.D. House

We know precious little of the man called Barabbas, a contemporary of Jesus of Nazareth. He is variously described in the historical record as thief, murderer, rebel, and notable Roman prisoner. His release by the Roman Prefect Pontius Pilate was part of the supernal plan for the Christ to offer himself as the ultimate blood sacrifice, but it’s doubtful Barabbas understood any of that at the time.

Many have wondered what became of him, or rather, who he became after that fateful day. Someday we will know the answer, but in the meantime we can imagine that, like all of us, he too sought a path of personal redemption, imperfectly.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Biblical Fiction

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 25, 2019

About the author

In late 2020, M.D. House semi-retired from a successful career in Corporate Finance and Business Leadership that allowed him to experience all facets of designing, producing, marketing and selling products to customers across the world. He enjoyed that career, and still consults part-time, but being able to pursue his passion for creative writing has been a tremendous blessing.

During that first career, he published one science fiction novel, called Patriot Star. Since embarking on his new journey with much more time and focus for writing, he’s published a sequel (Kindred Star), along with seven religious historical fiction novels (which were a surprise) and his first fantasy novel, Crossroads of Awakening Memory, Book 1 of the epic fantasy series called the End Times Convergence.

His docket is filled with new projects, including Book 3 in the Patriot Star series, more Barabbas spin-offs, and additional volumes in the End Times Convergence (plus some side projects, of course).

You can learn more about M.D. House, including interviews with people like Eric Metaxas, Tricia Goyer, Carmen LaBerge, Roger Marsh, Chautona Havig, Jaime Vaughn, and Dr. Paul Reeves, at mdhouselive.com.

Reviews

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Excellent Book!

I Was Called Barabbas is a fantastic book, at least for me - someone not of the Christian faith, so having no background information other than basic knowledge learned from various places/people/institutions. Despite the background of Christianity, I found this to be a compelling story of a man who hit rock bottom and by happenstance, got a second chance at life. And with that second chance, Barabbas decided to change his life (no easy task) vs reverting to old ways. With Christianity added, he, through learning the was of Christianity and becoming a Christian, he learns who he really is and the process to find himself was not one he needed to do on his own. Though not anything with religion, but I have learned a lit and am inspired by this book!

[Scott Rezer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Was Called Barabbas is a well-researched novel about the infamous Barabbas, a supposed zealot and murderer held prisoner by the Romans for insurrection. I found this a compelling story of fiction that might have been. We know nothing from the Bible or scholarship about the man released in Jesus’ place. He is merely a name. And yet, M.D. House has created a believable novel to give us an idea about a man who experienced firsthand a life-changing ordeal that surely had been orchestrated by God Himself in the unfolding drama of Jesus’ trial and sacrificial crucifixion. What might that man have suffered and endured, knowing that he, a man guilty of murder and sedition, had been released in the place of an innocent man, and for no other reason than political gain? It has to humble a man and make him reexamine his life—and perhaps, decide to make good on that exchange. As the story unfolds and aligns with Scripture, another story reveals itself as well, one in which a humbled man discovers the worth God sees in him, and as he grows closer in friendship with another man once known as a murderer: the Apostle Paul. But what great things does God have in store for Barabbas—Jesus/Jesse bar Abbas? You’ll have to read the story to find out! An excellent historical fiction novel!

[ArynTheLibraryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was Called Barabbas: This one is fascinating. To follow Barabbas in what caused him to be in that position of notorious, or infamous prisoner/insurrectionist. And to have his encounter with Jesus leave him a changed man? Priceless.

I loved the journey we were taken on with Barabbas. His inability to process and accept that Jesus had given his life, in Barabbas' place, and that he could become a new person. This book could be the story of any of us, struggling with our value, our worth, our mistakes, etc.

It's towards the end of the book, but my favorite scene was Barabbas and Paul's heart to heart conversation. This is absolutely beautiful, these two men who were very definitely NOT CHRISTIAN when Jesus encountered them, coming to grips with the fact that Jesus forgave and accepted them both.

Speaking of Paul, the one small issue I had with the story is the idea of Paul being married. (1 Cor 7:8) Supposedly his father in law took his wife and kids and disappeared when Paul became a Christian. A well done and believable plot, but not Biblically accurate.

I found the Cornelius thread of the story great as well. Getting a look at his before and after possibilities was fun! Looking forward to book two!

I received a copy of this book from the author, and chose to review it here. All thoughts are my own.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barabbas

I liked how the story flowed, all I learned about Barabbas and imagery of the areas he lived. I look forward to reading the series.

[Nolan Cordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I greatly enjoyed “I was Called Barabbas”. The book is historical fiction and asks the question of what happened to Barabbas, the man chosen to be saved so Christ could die in his stead, after his release from prison. Since we don’t have any reliable records of Barabbas’ life, this book is highly speculative, but the author does a fantastic job bringing the reader into the time period.

While the depictions of the living conditions and customs of the people were well written, for me, the main characters redemption arc truly made this a five star read. This book shows the Christian hope that all people can change and be redeemed through Christ and his message. This is especially poignant when seen through the eyes of Barabbas, a murderer and a thief, as he attempts to make himself into a better man.

If I’m honest, I’m not sure how historically accurate the book is, as I am not a historian. However, at least in my opinion, the characters more than make up for any gross historical inaccuracies, if any.

For those concerned about questionable content, this book does contain violence, but the violence is not described in depth, nor is it gratuitous.

[Amina Thajudeen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Barabbas, the prisoner who was released by Roman Prefect Pontius Pilate. It was him that Prefect was decided to sacrifice instead of Jesus of Nazareth. But this decision was not accepted and eventually Barabbas was released. The story took a brief turn here. We then came to know the past of Barabbas and how he ended up as a prisoner. The ferocious child who once wanted to be a Roman soldier and ran away from his family for his existence. He came back and became an apprentice to a tentmaker. But fate has better decisions for him. From a meager worker, he was transitioned to a Jewish rebel. He was not intended to do anything like this but he was bought into the war by destiny. But his real story begins after his release and crucifixion of The Christ.

He came back home to start a new life. With some surprise, he gets married to his love of life and started a family together. But what came after that is truly changed him. He was a damaged soul who believed that he is not worth saving. But the Lord has greater plans for him. His mercy has bestowed upon him and he finds his path eventually. Just like before, he wants a quite low life, but he was called into this war. He was needed on this journey. Moreover, he needed this new path for his salvation.

The story digs deep into the emotional account of Barabbas. His transformation from a common man to a leader was astounding. He was always immersed in self-doubt. But his courage and love saved him. They help him to rise beyond every obstructions. Although he was a deeply damaged soul, his path to salvation began in the moment he put his life before others. He was ready to sacrifice his life. This was his redemption.

The author has narrated a heart-wrenching tale of Barabbas rather beautifully. We are walking beside him throughout the story. His life was unpredictable. But it is what keeps him moving. I'm eagerly waiting for the next part.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give it mire than 5 stars, I would give it 10!

Thanks go to the author for the complimentary copy of I Was Called Barabbas by M.D. House. I voluntarily agreed to read and review this book. My opinions are my own, and no one has influenced them.

I Was Called Barabbas is novel about the thief and murderer Pontius Pilate released instead of Jesus Christ. This is a fictional depiction and is not based on Barabbas’ life. I found the story fascinating, and the pacing pulled me in from the beginning and kept me enmeshed until the end.

Barabbas is a Jew who lived in Jesus’ time. After he’s released, he flees and roams place to place until he finally returns to his home. He weds the young woman he loves and uses his skills as tent maker to support his family. His wife is part of the people who believe Jesus is the son of God and that he died and rose from the dead. She is part of the community who follow the apostles of Jesus.

Barabbas has a belief system, but he is sure he can never be forgiven for his sins. He longs for the peace his wife has, but knows he can never have it. As the story progresses, he helps the Christians several times. This is a story of redemption and conversion.

If you enjoy Christian Historical fiction with an amazing conversion story and characters who will touch your soul, then you will love I Was Called Barabbas as much as I did. I’m so glad I agreed to read this incredible novel. Happy reading!

[Lisa]

In the Bible, Barabbas was the criminal released by Pontius Pilate. This surprising twist (surprising to Barabbas, at least) was part of God's eternal plan, in which Jesus Christ was crucified in Barabbas' place to serve as the perfect sacrifice to save people from their sins. But beyond the mention of Barabbas' name and lawbreaking status in Scripture, most people know very little about the man.

I Was Called Barabbas is M. D. House's fictional account of the life Barabbas could have gone on to live. The Day, as Barabbas refers to that life-changing period when he was unexpectedly set free, is not the focus of the story. Of course it is talked about - without it, there would be no story for Barabbas to tell. But the tale told here is of his life after that day.

As a Jewish rebel, Barabbas had put a Roman target on his back. When he goes back home after his release, he struggles to find a way to just live his life. To his shock and amazement, he marries a beautiful woman named Chanah, and he takes up work in the family tentmaking business. The women in Barabbas' life are disciples of Jesus, and they introduce him to leaders in the faith. But Barabbas can't see how Jesus' sacrifice could ever be meant for someone as unworthy as him.

That is the heart of this story. Barabbas believes he is too far gone for anything to save him, and he struggles to believe that God would even hear his prayers, much less care about his salvation. I enjoyed the author's perspective on a story that hasn't been contemplated much, and his imagined telling of what Barabbas went on to do and experience after The Day.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Reedsy Discovery. All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't like.

[J. Else · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Was Called Barabbas" is the emotional and spiritual journey of the man who Pilate released, Barabbas . Watching Jesus of Nazareth crucified in his place, Barabbas believes himself completely unworthy of God's love. He's a murderer after all, which led to his imprisonment.

What a completely unique viewpoint to explore, Barabbas trying to understand why he was released while a good man like Jesus took his place on the cross. Barabbas' narrative voice is compelling and vulnerable. He is full of love for his family and other followers of Christ, just not for himself (which is extremely relatable feeling to a multitude of people including myself). This is the crux of the story, Barabbas forgiving himself and accepting the Lord's forgiveness. Miracles occur in his presence, but it'll take more to convince Barabbas he's worthy of God's love. There is a wealth of growth in our main character that helps drive the plot forward.

Through Barabbas' story, we meet many of the early pillars of the Christian faith, see the cruelty of life under Roman rule, and visit a number of well-detailed historical sites. There are thought-provoking discussions about faith and listening to God's voice instead of our own, as well as consequences that Barabbas also feels at one point.

The story takes place mostly in Barabbas' head space. While there's a lot of "telling" happening, the author is able to make it work by infusing it with deep emotional layers and Barabbas' personal reflections. I thoroughly enjoyed this look at the difficulties of faith, particularly from one such as Barabbas who's life was spared at (what he believes) is the cost of Jesus'. Recommended.

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Update: This book remains a personal favorite. The first person point of view is well written and sounds natural. The progression of the story feels like it's really being told by a humble man struggling with self doubt. M.D. House has written an inspiring and beautiful story. It is fiction, but it is based in certain events. It is often through fiction that we see others and ourselves more clearly, and hopefully with more compassion.

Original:
I love the idea of Barabbas seeking redemption, eventually. I love stories with people who struggle to see themselves as others do, and to see the good in themselves.
Barabbas literally watched Jesus take his place on the cross. It could easily have been him, and by legal rights it should've been him. In this imagining of the life of such an infamous figure, he knows the literal meaning of that exchange, but struggles to fully accept it on a spiritual level. His development comes across as realistic while he deals with his guilt and anger. I'm glad to have this book in my library and will return to it again as I need the reminder that Christ already paid the price. I don't need to punish myself over and over again for my errors. I need to repent and do better and that is all!

[Reid & June Sandford · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Was Called Barabbas by M. D. House
Even though this is a good read I cannot give it more than a “4” Star rating. However, it is better than the book “Barabbas” by Pär Lagerkvist which only merited a “3”. They both have some Biblical, both theological and doctrinal, issues but this one is a little better.
Any work on Barabbas is by its very nature going to be mostly fiction since we know only what the Bible says about him. The Bible notes he was a “notable prisoner”, an “insurrectionist”, a “murder”, and had caused “sedition”. Barabbas – “Aramaic Bar-abba = literally, "son of the father," i.e., of the master or teacher””, Syriac "son of the rabbi or teacher", or even "Jesus Barabbas". Thus, Jesus of Nazarene, Jesus the Son of God, Jesus the perfect Lamb of God was sacrificed instead of “Jesus Barabbas” – in other words the perfect Gospel story – the sinless dying for the sinner! What Barabbas did with this reprieve from immediate death is unknown but what you and I do with this knowledge is of imminent importance. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now [is] the accepted time; behold, now [is] the day of salvation.)
First: I take issue with his continued stress on using the “Sabbath Day” as the day of worship for Christians. This is an unscriptural and unwarranted throwback to Judaism and the Old Testament Law which has no meaning to Christians after Christ’s Resurrection. Christ died on Friday, He rested in the grave on Saturday “the Sabbath” i.e., the day of rest, He arose again on Sunday the first day of the week. The New Testament clearly teaches this.
Mark 16:9 “Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils”.
Act 20:7 “And upon the first [day] of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight”.
1 Corinthians 16:2 “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come”.
Second: He is a way too loose in elevating Mary the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ beyond the Biblical picture given to us of her. She was a most extraordinary women in that God chose her to be the virgin that gave birth to the long looked for Messiah. But, Christ himself sets the correct Biblical doctrine on this point in Luke 11:27-28 “And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it”. The Lord Jesus himself does NOT place His own mother into a special position but rather points us beyond her to God and our adherence to His Word as found in the Bible. No, the elevation and even deification of Mary, which is often done today in some churches is to be stringently avoided and even called anathema.
Third: He raises women into leadership roles which again is generally taught in the Bible unless men have failed in taking the lead, which is shown in the Old Testament – Deborah being the example in Judges 4:1-10. One other occasion in the New Testament is noted – Phoebe in Romans 16:1 where she is called by various titles depending on the translation (servant-11 times, deacon-2 times, deaconess, minister, ministrant-each 1 time). Therefore, these two very specific cases are special exemptions and NOT the rule in Biblical teaching. Unfortunately, in today’s world men are all too reluctant to take the lead in spiritual things at home and notably in the church. Note: we are not talking about roles such as Sunday School teachers – no problem there. But, Pastors, Elders, and Deacons as designated offices – NO. Yes, this may seem chauvinistic but it is not. The Bible clearly teaches equality. Paul says in Galatians 3:26-28 “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus”. No inequality there! The issue as I stated is in “leadership roles”! Paul’s admonishment to the Corinthians church in 1 Corinthians 14: 34-35 where he says “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church”. Paul continues his teachings in Ephesians 5: 22-33 and needs careful reading. It is NOT servitude but love first. It is NOT dictatorial rule but authority due to headship and spiritual headship as directed by GOD - not by human thinking or wishes.

[Mary Fisher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good faith filled story.

We don't know what happened to Barabbas in reality, but this is a good story. I think it is probably very close to what it was like to live in the first century, with the apostles, and the new Church. It is also very close to the way people feel about forgiveness. When you don't understand grace, it is hard to believe Christ died for you, and God could actually forgive you. The only reason I gave it 4 stars is because there is a couple of inaccuracies.

[Beverly Duckworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of I Was Called Barabbas

I won this book from Goodreads after reading I am to review. This book was based Barabbas in the Bible. It is a Christian work of fiction. I really enjoyed this book.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and am so looking forward to reading The Pillars of Barabbas. The story line drew me in right away and kept me hooked for the duration of the book. I will definitely will recommend this book!!

[Joanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great book if you like historical Christian fiction and always wondered what possibly happened to Barabbas after his release.

[Sarah Main · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s a nice story, but it moves a little too quickly for things to be really impactful. I’ve read other novels about discovering faith that worked better for me.

[Ѽ tazannah Ѽ]

The title reminds of the song “I am barabbas” by Josiah queen

[M.D. House · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this book turned out, but the journey of writing it was incredible and faith-affirming.

I Was Called Barabbas was intended to be both entertaining and inspiring, and it appears to have hit the mark with most people. It was more fun to research and write than I could have imagined, and the sequel has been even more of a joy. (Pillars of Barabbas was released in March 2021).

Enjoy! And feel free to reach out to me with any questions or comments.

M.D. House

[Emma Law · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was such an interesting concept, and i loved reading this book. it was so cool to see Barabbas through the authors eyes. i loved watching him grow spiritually, and felt myself growing as i read his experiences. it was so cool to have spiritual experiences while reading a fictional book. absolutely wonderful! definitely recommend!!

[Tamara · Rating 2 out of 5]

I couldn’t finish it.